Tangy, crunchy and packed with health benefits, sauerkraut is a traditional food that has been enjoyed for centuries. But does sauerkraut need to be refrigerated?
The answer depends on whether it’s pasteurized or raw, store-bought or homemade, and how it’s sealed. This guide provides expert storage tips, a breakdown of best-before dates, signs of spoilage, and fun ways to use up leftover sauerkraut.
What is sauerkraut?
Sauerkraut means “sour cabbage” in German.
Sauerkraut is an ancient food, a condiment traditionally made by fermenting finely chopped cabbage with salt and water. The fermentation process turns raw cabbage into a probiotic-rich food that supports gut health and has a unique sour taste.
Although this type of sauerkraut is considered “raw,” most commercially available sauerkraut is not fully fermented. I just soaked the cabbage in vinegar water.
Commercial Sauerkraut: What is the difference between fresh and pasteurized?
The type of sauerkraut will determine when to refrigerate the sauerkraut.
pasteurized sauerkraut This is common in most supermarkets. This is a sauerkraut made with vinegar and brine, usually sold in bottled or canned form in the non-refrigerated section of supermarkets.
• Best before date (unopened): 6-12 months in the pantry.
• After opening: Store refrigerated and consume within 1-2 months.
Pasteurization kills the live bacteria normally found in traditionally made sauerkraut, allowing it to be preserved until opened. They don’t have the benefits of probiotics, but they have a long shelf life and are convenient.
raw, unpasteurized sauerkraut You can find it in the refrigerated section of the supermarket. Traditionally, it is made by fermenting fresh cabbage with salt and water. It is rich in probiotics that are good for gut health and is considered a living food.
• Best before date (unopened): This type of sauerkraut should always be kept refrigerated, even before opening.
• After opening: If kept refrigerated and soaked in salt water, it will last for 4 to 6 months.
• why: Raw sauerkraut is a “living food” that contains potent probiotics. Although it is healthy, it is also perishable.
Main difference
• Pasteurization: It is shelf-stable, has a long shelf life, and does not contain probiotics.
• raw: Always refrigerated, has a short shelf life and has probiotic benefits.
• Packaging: Store-bought sauerkraut may come in cans, jars, or vacuum-sealed bags. Canned versions are pasteurized. Bagged/bottled. Refrigerated versions are usually raw.
Should I freeze sauerkraut? Experts say:
If sauerkraut is sold on the shelf (not refrigerated), it has been pasteurized and is safe to store unopened in your pantry.
If it is sold refrigerated, it is perishable and must be kept refrigerated at all times.
of USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service We recommend refrigerating opened sauerkraut to slow bacterial growth and preserve quality.
Pasteurized sauerkraut in a sealed jar can be stored at room temperature until opened, but raw sauerkraut should always be kept refrigerated.
Raw fermented sauerkraut is a living food. According to researchers, Pennsylvania Extensionrefrigeration is important Prevents spoilage and maintains probiotic benefits whether opened or unopened.
Sauerkraut expiration date breakdown
| types of sauerkraut | Room temperature (unopened) | Refrigerated (opened) |
|---|---|---|
| Pasteurized (store bought) | 6-12 months | 1-2 months |
| Raw fermentation (commercially available) | Not recommended (refrigerated storage) | 4-6 months |
| Homemade fermentation (canned) | Not recommended (refrigerated storage) | 4-6 months |
| Properly canned homemade | 12-18 months | 12-18 months |
Note: Actual shelf life will vary depending on brand, salt content, packaging, and handling. Always follow label instructions and discard if mold, odor, or slimy texture is observed.
Important points: Raw sauerkraut should always be refrigerated, but pasteurized sauerkraut can be stored in the pantry until opened.
Here are the signs your sauerkraut is going bad
Even when stored properly, sauerkraut can spoil. Be aware of the following warning signs:
discoloration: Brown, dry, or dull sauerkraut suggests spoilage.
Strange odor: Sauerkraut should have a tangy smell, not a rotten or sulfurous smell.
Slimy texture: This indicates bacterial contamination.
Mold growth: Molds produce mycotoxins. This is a chemical that can cause illness if ingested. If there’s visible mold, it’s probably best to throw it away. For tips, check out our guide on how to tell if sauerkraut is spoiled.
Best practices for storing sauerkraut
✅ Store unopened pasteurized sauerkraut in a cool, dry pantry.
✅ Always refrigerate raw sauerkraut even before opening.
✅ Please use clean equipment to avoid contamination.
✅ Please seal tightly after use.
✅ Avoid direct sunlight and temperature changes.
See also
A fun way to use up leftover sauerkraut
Sauerkraut isn’t just for hot dogs! Try some of the creative ideas below.
savory dishes
• Reuben sandwich: A classic combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese and rye bread.
• Sauerkraut pierogi: Fill dumplings with sauerkraut and potatoes.
• German sauerkraut soup: A hearty winter dish containing sausage and potatoes.
unexpected development
• Sauerkraut pancakes: Adds a tangy crunch to flavorful pancakes.
• Sauerkraut pizza: Top with sauerkraut, sausage, and mozzarella cheese.
• Stir-fried sauerkraut: Add it to stir-fried vegetables to add acidity and texture.
health promotion
• Sauerkraut smoothie: To get your dose of probiotics, mix a spoonful into your green smoothie.
• Sauerkraut salad mix: Toss with the shredded carrots, apples, and vinaigrette.
• Sauerkraut dip: Combine cream cheese and herbs to create a tangy spread.
Final verdict: Should you refrigerate sauerkraut?
yes! Always refrigerate sealed sauerkraut after opening.
Storing sauerkraut in the refrigerator preserves its flavor and makes it safe to eat.
If you purchase your sauerkraut in the unrefrigerated section of your grocery store, you can safely store it in your pantry cabinet until you’re ready to eat it. After opening, please put it in the refrigerator.
always always keep refrigerated raw sauerkraut, Whether opened or unopened. This allows you to maintain the benefits of probiotics while keeping it fresh. If you leave it at room temperature, it will spoil quickly.
With proper storage and creative recipes, sauerkraut never goes to waste.
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Source: Better Living – onbetterliving.com
